Bits: Sing that anthem proud, Glenbard East

Here’s what they do with the national anthem at the state tournament:

Before each two-game semifinals session on Friday, a student from an IHSA member school sings “The Star-Spangled Banner.” But on Saturday, there is no song at the beginning of the trophy sessions; instead, the anthem is delayed until just before the start of the championship game.

On Saturday night, when Glenbard East and Normal Community were about to play for third place in Class 4A, the Glenbard East students decided this game deserved an anthem. So they belted it out. Did a right nice job, too.

Author: Kirk Wessler

Kirk Wessler is executive sports editor/columnist and has worked at the Journal Star since 1987. A graduate of Bradley University, he previously worked at the Columbia (Mo.) Daily Tribune and Dallas Times-Herald. Wessler's work has won numerous awards from Associated Press Sports Editors, U.S. Basketball Writers Association, Illinois Press Association and Illinois Associated Press. He is former president of the USBWA. Follow him on Twitter @KirkWessler.
View all posts by Kirk Wessler